Category: The Citizen

Mara. Female genital parts extracted during female genital mutilation (FGM) are secretly traded like illicit drugs in parts of the Mara Region, an investigation by The Citizen has established.

This newspaper conducted an undercover investigation in Butiama, Musoma Urban, Tarime and Serengeti districts towards the end of 2025 to establish whether genital parts removed during FGM were being sold, as alleged by local sources. During the three-month investigation, The Citizen strictly followed professional and legal procedures and established that it could have purchased the genital parts had it chosen to proceed.

However, the transaction was cancelled after the newspaper confirmed that the illegal trade was indeed taking place. The investigation revealed that genital parts extracted from a single victim are sold at negotiable prices starting from Sh1 million, making the trade among the most lucrative underground businesses in the region.

Traditional leaders and FGM practitioners, locally known as ngaribas, are accused of supplying the parts to fishing boat owners. The fishers reportedly believe that using the body parts during fishing rituals attracts larger catches and shields them from misfortune.

Despite the existence of multiple laws outlawing FGM and the trade in human body parts, the practice persists, largely due to weak enforcement of regulations, including Section 118 of the Law of the Child Act, Cap 13 of 2019 and Sections 21, 22 and 169A of the Penal Code, Cap 16. Section 118 of the Law of the Child Act explicitly prohibits the exploitation of children for any purpose, including the illegal trade in organs and body parts. Section 169A of the Penal Code, as amended in 2022, criminalises FGM against girls of any age.

Sections 21 and 22 of the Penal Code further stipulate that remaining silent, failing to report, or neglecting to take action against criminal offences amounts to participation in the crime. Under the Local Government Acts, Cap 287 and 288, local government authorities, village executive officers and neighbourhood leaders are legally mandated to protect children’s rights within their jurisdictions, as outlined in Sections 142 and 143. As a result of continued violations, girls subjected to FGM face life-threatening risks, including severe physical injury, psychological trauma and, in extreme cases, death.

To investigate the alleged trade, The Citizen travelled to Musoma District in the region and quickly realised that confirming the existence of the business would be nearly impossible without engaging local networks familiar with the underground operations. The newspaper, therefore, sought the assistance of a local individual well known in the area and connected to fishing communities.

Initially, the individual was visibly shocked by the inquiry. However, rather than dismissing the allegations outright, the person sought clarification on the origin of the rumours.

The individual cautioned that the task would be extremely difficult and dangerous, requiring patience, emotional restraint and considerable time to gain trust. According to the source, successful infiltration would require blending in and building credibility with fishing boat owners, described as key players in the trade.

The source advised this newspaper to present itself as a prospective investor interested in operating fishing boats and establishing a fish-processing facility in the region. After agreeing on the approach, the parties temporarily parted ways.

Later that night, the source contacted the newspaper and suggested meeting an agent who could facilitate contact with a reliable supplier of the genital parts. It was agreed that the meeting would take place the following morning.

According to the investigator, the meeting was successful and the agent promised to link the newspaper with either a fishing boat owner or fishers involved in the practice. However, both the agent and potential suppliers expressed caution, noting suspicion towards outsiders, particularly because the trade is dominated by men and tightly controlled networks.

The agent proposed travelling to Kinesi in the outskirts of the district where he claimed the parts could be obtained more easily, as boat owners and fishers in other areas had become increasingly suspicious. Attempts to reach a fisherman based in Kinesi were initially unsuccessful, prompting the agent to promise follow-up communication with a dealer the following day.

Upon his return, the agent suggested meeting at a local entertainment spot to discuss the matter discreetly. During the meeting, the agent and a fisherman explained that December was a peak period for the availability of genital parts obtained through FGM.

They demanded Sh1 million for the immediate supply of the parts. The investigator negotiated the price down to Sh700,000, with an agreement that Sh250,000 would be paid in advance and the remaining S50,000 upon delivery.

The two explained that the parts are given to fishers during routine fishing activities or mixed with water used to clean boats offshore, a practice believed to enhance fish catches. After sealing the agreement, the agent and fisherman left, promising to deliver the genital parts the following evening.

At around 8pm the next day, the investigator received a call directing him to meet the suppliers for the handover. However, the investigator requested a postponement, citing difficulties faced by a colleague in Dar es Salaam who was meant to facilitate the remaining payment through banking channels.

The investigator said the primary objective of confirming the existence of the illegal trade had been achieved and completing the transaction would have served no journalistic or ethical purpose. Commenting on the revelations, Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC) Advocacy and Reforms director Fulgence Massawe said Tanzania’s Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2008 explicitly prohibits the sale and trafficking of human beings and their body parts.

“If such activities are indeed taking place, they constitute serious criminal offences. The law prohibits not only the trafficking of persons but also the trafficking of human organs and body parts,” he said.

Mr Massawe noted that previous cases involving people with albinism demonstrated how anti-trafficking laws apply to crimes involving the trade in body parts. He added that the Penal Code, together with the Sexual Offences Special Provisions Act, introduced Section 169, which prohibits FGM and prescribes severe penalties for offenders.

The Law of the Child, he said, further protects children from harmful cultural practices, including FGM. Despite these legal protections, Tanzania remains among the countries where FGM persists, largely due to weak enforcement mechanisms.

Mr Massawe said enforcement challenges stem from competing government priorities and the secretive nature of the practice, which makes detection and prosecution difficult. At the regional level, he said, the East African Legislative Assembly has made efforts to enact stronger laws aimed at eliminating FGM.

However, enforcement remains problematic, particularly where political leaders are reluctant to confront culturally sensitive issues. “In the Mara Region, an MP or councillor may avoid addressing the issue for fear of backlash.

Traditional leaders wield immense influence, sometimes exceeding that of government authorities. When they decide something should happen, it often does, even if secretly,” he said.

Mr Massawe added that although some cases are reported, FGM continues to be practised even in urban areas such as Dar es Salaam and the Coast Region, largely in secrecy. Head of the Police Gender Desk in Mara Region Charles Ezekiel dismissed claims that genital parts obtained through FGM are traded in the region.

“That is hearsay. We are not aware of any trade in genital parts.

However, the police, working with other stakeholders, will investigate the allegations to establish the truth,” he said. Mr Ezekiel acknowledged the existence of FGM among some Kurya communities, attributing the practice to deeply entrenched cultural beliefs.

The Director of Child Development at the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Mr Sebastian Kitiku, said the ministry did not know any trade involving genital parts. “We are not aware if genital parts are being sold, who may be buying them, or how such transactions are conducted.

If this trade exists, it is clearly illegal and unauthorised. Any such activity would be carried out in extreme secrecy because it is against the law,” he said.

“At present, we have no official information confirming these items are being sold. However, if evidence emerges, it would be clear that anyone involved is participating in illegal trade,” added Mr Kitiku.

He noted that FGM is deeply rooted in culture and traditions, with different tribes regarding female genital parts differently based on their beliefs. “In some pastoralist communities, including parts of Singida and among the Maasai, there is a belief that using these parts in cattle enclosures helps livestock reproduce or thrive,” he said.

“I would not be surprised if fishers in Mara hold similar beliefs. These are not isolated ideas; they reflect long-standing socialisation within certain communities,” he added.

Mr Kitiku explained that such beliefs may exist in other regions, including fishing communities in Mara. He acknowledged that some practices linked to FGM may seem shocking or unbelievable to outsiders, but remain real within these communities.

“You may be surprised that people still believe such things today, but this is the reality we are dealing with,” he said. .

Dar es Salaam. Analysts have cautioned that limited fiscal space and persistent governance challenges could undermine the sustainability of Africa’s development financing model, even as the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) secures a record $11 billion replenishment for its concessional arm.

The fundraising–the largest in the history of the African Development Fund (ADF)–represents a 23 per cent increase from the previous cycle and comes at a time when donor governments in Europe and North America are cutting foreign aid amid mounting domestic fiscal pressures. The latest replenishment, known as ADF-17, is being viewed as a milestone in Africa’s drive towards greater self-reliance.

For the first time, 23 African countries pledged funds to the ADF, which finances the continent’s poorest economies, committing a combined $182.7 million–five times more than in the previous cycle. According to the AfDB, 19 countries contributed for the first time.

AfDB president Dr Sidi Ould Tah described the outcome as a turning point for development finance on the continent. “In one of the most difficult global environments for development finance, our partners chose ambition over retrenchment, and investment over inertia,” he said.

The replenishment also attracted major partnerships, including up to $800 million from the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa and up to $2 billion from the OPEC Fund for International Development, signalling a shift towards risk-sharing arrangements rather than grant-based aid. However, analysts say the headline figures mask deeper structural constraints.

A finance expert at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), Dr Thobias Swai, said while strengthening the AfDB’s capital base was a welcome move, Africa’s financing needs remain far greater. “It is a positive step for the AfDB to enhance its financial capacity.

However, Africa’s demand for development financing is enormous,” he said. Dr Swai warned that record mobilisation could intensify competition for concessional loans, potentially raising borrowing costs and restricting access even for countries with sound track records.

He also questioned whether the Bank would be able to maintain adequate capital buffers to meet growing demand. “The key question is whether the AfDB will have enough capital to satisfy the needs of so many African countries.

Pressure on its balance sheet will only increase,” he said. Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy Rector who is also finance and taxation expert, Prof Haruni Mapesa, said the AfDB remains one of the few institutions capable of providing long-term concessional financing to African governments.

“This is practically the only window through which many African countries can access affordable financing at favourable interest rates,” he said. However, he warned that sustainability would ultimately depend on repayment discipline and sound governance.

“Weak governance leads to misallocation of funds, undermines repayment and weakens the Bank’s financial position,” Prof Mapesa said. Despite the risks, he described the AfDB as central to Africa’s economic independence.

“For African countries, the AfDB remains the most viable path away from overreliance on Western aid. But that path will only be sustainable if loans are used productively and repaid responsibly,” he said.

A senior lecturer in economics at the Open University of Tanzania, Dr Lawi Yohana, said Africa’s efforts to finance its own development face significant structural limitations. “Domestic financing is not easy for Africa.

The revenue base of most countries is too small to sustain the scale of development projects underway,” he said. Dr Yohana added that much of government revenue is absorbed by recurrent expenditure, including wages, debt servicing and essential social services, leaving little fiscal space for large-scale investment.

He said the success of the new financing model would depend on building a stronger private sector capable of participating in infrastructure and industrial projects through public-private partnerships. .

Unguja. Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi yesterday highlighted wide-ranging achievements across the islands’ economic, social and governance sectors, pledging to sustain development under his eighth-phase administration.

Dr Mwinyi outlined the gains in a national address broadcast by the Zanzibar Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) to mark the climax of the 62nd anniversary of the Zanzibar Revolution, saying the islands had recorded steady growth, rising investment and expanding public services. He said Zanzibar’s economy had strengthened, growing by 7.

1 percent in 2024 compared with 1.3 percent in 2020, while market turnover rose to Sh6.5 trillion in 2024 from S.

78 trillion in 2021. “Revenue collection has increased from Sh856 billion to Sh2.1 trillion, while inflation has remained in single digits at about five percent,” he said. Investment momentum remained strong, with 1,657 projects worth $20.2 billion registered with the Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority (Zipa) by December 2025. The projects span tourism, manufacturing and commercial real estate and are expected to create 87,696 jobs.

The government has strengthened the Micheweni and Fumba strategic investment zones and will continue offering targeted incentives to attract investors in the blue economy, manufacturing, renewable energy, ICT, aviation, maritime services and agriculture. Publicprivate partnership (PPP) projects will also be expanded from the current 21, reflecting their growing importance in driving economic growth and service delivery.

He said tourism remains a priority due to its economic contribution, noting that tourist arrivals reached 816,438 in 2025, a 27 percent increase from 2024. “To further boost tourist arrivals, the government plans to expand festivals, preserve historic sites, promote sports and culture, host national conferences and develop natural and heritage attractions,” he said. In fisheries, he said production rose by 110 percent from 38,107 tonnes in 2020 to 78,943 tonnes in 2024, while revenue increased from Sh203 billion to Sh608 billion.

He said seaweed production grew from 8,785 tonnes valued at Sh5.3 billion to 19,716 tonnes worth Sh16.4 billion, generating approximately 100,000 jobs. “On oil and gas, Zanzibar will move beyond the current block allocation stage and market 10 exploration blocks internationally,” he said.

Furthermore, he said major port improvements are underway, including the construction of Mangapwani Port, which will handle 200,000 containers and one million tonnes of cargo annually when completed in 2028. In transport, Dr Mwinyi said domestic flights rose from 5,696 in 2024 to 8,192 in 2025, while international flights increased from 98 to 205. He said vessel registrations reached 700, with revenue rising to Sh8.2 billion from Sh6.4 billion in 2024. “Significant progress has been made in road construction, with 82.8 kilometres of urban roads and 247 kilometres of rural roads completed. The Mwankwerekwe flyover is finished, while the Amani Bridge, UziNg’ambwa and Pangatupu projects are nearing completion,” he added.

He said passenger numbers rose to 2,578,250 in 2024/25 from 2,133,166 in 2023/24, while cargo handled increased to 4,603 tonnes, making the aviation sector one of the best-performing in recent years. According to him, construction of a new passenger terminal is underway and work on Pemba Airport has begun.

In land and housing, he said, 1,577 land use certificates have been issued and 399 land leases processed to support investment. “A total of 961 plots have been surveyed for residential, institutional, agricultural and commercial purposes,” he said.

Furthermore, he said agriculture, which employs 35 percent of the population, has been strengthened through irrigation schemes covering 1,325 hectares. He said the government aims to raise rice yields to 15 tonnes per acre per year, while improving extension services, mechanisation and storage facilities.

“Horticulture, livestock production and veterinary services are being expanded, alongside training for farmers in modern practices and conservation of indigenous trees.” To support entrepreneurs, he said 6,238 loans worth Sh50.7 billion have been issued to 27,563 citizens and 15 new markets have been built across the islands.

To tackle youth unemployment, Dr Mwinyi highlighted that 1,263 youth groups and 3,796 clubs have been supported, with 37 youth projects worth Sh28 billion implemented with development partners. “Major investments have also been made in education, health and water supply.

Thirty-five modern multi-storey schools have been built, with 70 schools set to connect to the fibre-optic network and be equipped with computers, laptops and smart classrooms. Plans include recruiting 500 teachers, expanding hostels, improving staff welfare and increasing access to higher education loans,” said the Isles’ President.

In health, he said the referral system has been strengthened, district hospitals completed and more health workers recruited. He said water supply projects include 455 boreholes, 87 storage tanks and 2,080 kilometres of pipelines, connecting over 31,000 new customers and that major projects are planned in North and South Unguja this year.

On governance, Dr Mwinyi said accountability remains a priority, hinting that the Zanzibar Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Authority recovered Sh6.6 billion and $94,370 in 2025, while clean audit reports continue to rise. “Public servants are being paid on time, trained and strengthened, with 742 new staff recruited in critical areas.

Through the Sema na Rais system, 87.5 percent of 21,725 complaints have been resolved, while Union matters are addressed through joint development projects,” he said. President Samia Suluhu Hassan congratulated Tanzanians on the milestone, saying: “I wish all Tanzanians a happy commemoration of Zanzibar Revolution Day.

Let us honour the Revolution not only by working hard but also by upholding humanity and human dignity. Through this, we shall move forward together in building a smile of humanity.

” .

Dar es Salaam. The excitement surrounding the 2026 NMB Mapinduzi Cup final has reached fever pitch ahead of today’s clash pitting Young Africans (Yanga SC) against and Azam FC at the Gombani Stadium in Pemba.

It is the first time that a Mapinduzi Cup match will be played in Pemba. Zanzibar President, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, will serve as the guest of honour for the match.

Players, club officials, members and fans of both sides are buzzing with anticipation as the famous Dar es Salaam derby heads to one of its most glamorous stages in recent years. Beyond pride and bragging rights, huge financial rewards are at stake.

The champions will pocket Sh150 million, while the runners-up will walk away with Sh100 million. On top of that, there are lucrative individual prizes for the tournament’s Best Player and the NMB Most Disciplined Player, making the final even more attractive and fiercely contested.

Azam FC were the first to book their place in the final after edging rivals Simba SC 10 in the first semi-final on January 8. Yanga followed suit a day later, also winning 10 against Singida Black Stars to set up a mouth-watering all-Dar es Salaam showdown.

Those two semi-finals were among the most competitive in recent editions of the tournament, reflecting the high standards and intensity brought about by the tournament’s growing stature under NMB Bank’s sponsorship. The NMB backing has transformed the Mapinduzi Cup in terms of image, prize money, quality and competitiveness.

The tournament is a key part of the celebrations marking the 62nd anniversary of the Zanzibar Revolution, and this year’s edition has underlined how far it has come. Road to Pemba Azam FC emerged from Group A, which also included Singida Black Stars, Mlandege FC and Uganda’s URA.

They opened with a 11 draw against Singida, then defeated defending champions Mlandege 20 before beating URA 21. In the semi-finals, they knocked out Simba with a narrow 10 victory. Yanga, meanwhile, have been ruthless.

Drawn in Group C alongside KVZ of Zanzibar and TRA United, they beat KVZ 30 and edged TRA United 10 to finish top. They then eliminated Singida Black Stars 10 in the semi-finals.

Impressively, Yanga have won every match without conceding a single goal. Afcon returnees add spice One of the biggest factors fuelling excitement is the return of several Taifa Stars players from the ongoing Afcon 2025 finals in Morocco.

Both Yanga and Azam had key players away on national duty, and their possible inclusion in the final has added a new layer of intrigue. Azam have so far played without the likes of Feisal Salum, Zubeir Foba, Pascal Msindo, Lusajo Mwaikenda and Idd Nado, while Yanga missed Ibrahim Bacca, Dickson Job, Mohammed “Tshabalala” Hussein, Prince Dube, Bakari Mwamnyeto and Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra.

With Taifa Stars now back in the country, it is up to coaches Florent Ibenge and Pedro Goncalves to decide whether to unleash their stars in the final. Everything set for kickoff The Zanzibar Football Federation (ZFF) has confirmed that all preparations are complete.

The final will also mark the official opening of the newly renovated New Gombani Complex and, in a special gesture to fans, entry will be free. ZFF Information Officer Mohammed Kabwanga said Azam arrived on Sunday and trained at Gombani, while Yanga followed on Monday.

The final kicks off on Tuesday, January 13 at 10pm. NMB Zanzibar Business Manager Naima Said Shaame wished both teams well, while reminding them of the importance of discipline.

The NMB Most Disciplined Player prize, which stood at Sh500, 000 in the group stage and Sh1 million in the semi-finals, will rise to Sh2 million in the final. With top-class squads, returning Afcon stars and millions on the line, Pemba is set to host a final worthy of the Mapinduzi Cup’s growing reputation.

Coaches comments: Yanga head coach Pedro Goncalves expressed confidence ahead of the clash, saying, “Our players have worked extremely hard, and we are fully prepared for this final. Every member of the squad is motivated, and we aim to deliver a performance that our fans will be proud of.

Azam FC is a strong side, but we are ready for the challenge.” On the other side, Azam FC coach Florent Ibenge was equally optimistic, stating, “Finals are always special, and we respect Yanga as tough opponents.

Our focus is on playing our game and seizing every opportunity. The players are mentally and physically ready, and we hope to give our fans a memorable night.

” .

Dar es Salaam. CCM members and all Tanzanians have been urged to move beyond their differences and work together to safeguard peace and national unity for the country’s development.

The call was made on Tuesday, January 13, 2025, by the ruling party’s Secretary-General, Dr Asha Rose Migiro, while concluding her official tour of the Dar es Salaam Region. Addressing party leaders at the close of the regional tour, Dr Migiro said the party’s policies emphasise equality among Tanzanians, a principle that forms the foundation of the Sixth Phase Government.

“The CCM membership pledge states clearly that all people are equal. Every person, regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity, religion, or race, must be given equal opportunity to participate in national development.

We must stand together as a nation to safeguard peace. That is the essence of the philosophy of Work and Humanity,” said Dr Migiro.

She advised party leaders to play their critical role in managing and uniting communities at the grassroots level, building cooperation from the lowest levels to the highest, while noting the importance of party branches as the backbone of development. On concluding her tour in Ilala, Dr Migiro said the district holds a unique position in both national and regional politics, with a special place in the country and Dar es Salaam in general, as it has produced the Speaker of Parliament, the city’s Mayor, and the deputy.

“Ilala is the commercial heart of the city and hosts key government institutions. The Magogoni State House is located in Ilala, and the city’s main commercial hub, Kariakoo, is also found here,” she added.

At the meeting, which drew hundreds of party branch delegates, activists, and leaders, CCM National Executive Committee member Mr Simba Gadafi emphasised the importance of grassroots leadership. He said branch leaders are vital to the party’s strength and national development because they operate closest to the community.

“These branch leaders are extremely important ambassadors of the party and society because they live within the community. They know where thieves are, where criminals are, and what is happening on the ground,” he said.

Commenting on the party’s achievements in Dar es Salaam Region, Mr Gadafi said that at independence, the city had only seven secondary schools, three for girls and two for boys, and just four dispensaries. “Currently, the country has made significant progress, with every ward now having schools and health facilities, a factor that has continued to earn CCM strong support from Dar es Salaam residents.

These developments have continued to give the party victories during elections,” he said. Addressing the meeting at Diamond Jubilee Hall, CCM Secretary for Ideology, Publicity and Training Mr Kenani Kihongosi, urged party leaders and members to work confidently and spread information about the government’s achievements.

He said CCM has delivered major development projects across the country and that leaders should not fear any individual or group. “CCM has done great things in this country.

We see the projects everywhere, so we are not here to act weak,” he said, urging young people not to be misled by individuals based abroad who seek to undermine national peace. He encouraged them to support the government and report stalled projects so that appropriate action can be taken.

“Any democracy in the world must prioritise the basic needs of its people, including housing, food, and clothing. There are forms of democracy being promoted from outside that we must reject,” he said.

“We must not allow ourselves to be incited to destroy our own country. Instead, let us report stalled projects so the government can act,” he added.

.

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania has been placed in the highest category of digital government maturity, reflecting progress in moving public services online, integrating government systems and strengthening mechanisms for citizen feedback.

In the World Bank’s GovTech Maturity Index (GTMI) 2025 assessment report released in December, Tanzania is classified in Group A Extensive GovTech Maturity, the top tier of the index. The World Bank evaluates countries on the existence and effective implementation of key foundations for digital government, including policies, laws, guidelines, systems and execution.

The ranking builds on Tanzania’s earlier gains. In a previous GTMI cycle, the country was listed among the strongest global performers in 2022. In a study covering 198 countries, Tanzania climbed from 90th place in 2021 to 26th in 2022, moving from Group B to Group A.

Within Africa, it ranked second after Mauritius and was cited as leading East Africa. The 2025 summary places Tanzania among a small group of African countries in the top maturity category, alongside Kenya, Egypt, Uganda and Rwanda.

Commenting on the ranking, the Director General of the e-Government Authority (e-GA), Mr Benedict Ndomba, said the classification reflects verified progress. “This achievement is evidence that the country is on the right path in building a digital government,” he said, adding that the World Bank assessment took about a year and involved collecting evidence and records on ICT use in government across countries.

He urged public institutions to continue implementing ICT projects in line with established laws, regulations, standards and guidelines, to strengthen citizen engagement platforms and to integrate systems. Mr Ndomba said the true test of the GTMI classification would be felt in daily life–how reliably services function online, how quickly feedback is provided and how seamlessly government systems connect to make public services simpler and more trustworthy for citizens.

Beyond rankings, the report notes that the value of digital government lies in whether systems reduce repetitive paperwork, speed up service delivery and make public institutions more responsive to citizens. The GTMI framework assesses progress across four pillars: Core Government Systems, Online Public Service Delivery, Digital Citizen Engagement and GovTech Enablers.

Tanzania’s performance is closely linked to improvements in core systems, including the Human Capital Information Management System (HCIMS) for public service and payroll management, and the Ajira Portal for recruitment. Interoperability is highlighted as a major achievement.

The Government Enterprise Service Bus (GovESB) is cited as the backbone enabling secure data exchange across government systems. By allowing platforms to interact, GovESB reduces duplication, improves efficiency and limits the need for citizens to submit the same information repeatedly to different offices.

.

Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) is set to launch a nationwide awareness campaign to encourage the use of the country’s code top-level domain for websites and email addresses.

This initiative aims to strengthen Tanzania’s digital identity and promote safe online practices. According to TCRA director general Dr Jabiri Bakari, the 12-month campaign, which is scheduled to begin this year, seeks to educate, motivate, and empower Tanzanians to adopt the .

tz domain. The goal is to establish it as a credible and trusted digital identity for the country.

“The objective is to increase understanding of domain names and their importance, and to promote their registration,” Dr Bakari said. He added that users would be encouraged to choose .

tz as their official online identity, while the authority would also educate the public on cybersecurity, authenticity and trust when using official domain names. Domain names serve as unique identifiers for internet resources such as websites and email addresses, for example TCRA’s official website, www.

tcra.go.

tz Dr Bakari said wider adoption of the .tz domain would strengthen Tanzania’s digital footprint, improve efficiency and facilitate local communication and data exchange.

The rapid growth of the digital economy in Tanzania, he noted, has increased the need for individuals, businesses and institutions to establish a trusted and visible online presence. “As more services move to digital platforms–ranging from e-commerce and digital payments to government services–the importance of owning a verified and secure domain name has become more critical than ever,” he said.

Despite the growth in internet usage, adoption of .tz domain names remains relatively low.

As of September 2025, there were 35,621 .tz domain names, representing a 24.5 per cent increase from 28,601 recorded in 2023. Dr Bakari said many enterprises continue to operate solely through social media pages, free web domains or shared platforms, a practice that limits credibility, weakens online security and undermines the authenticity of digital identities.

“This has contributed to challenges such as impersonation, misinformation, brand misuse, cyber fraud and limited visibility of Tanzanian content online,” he said. Encouraging businesses, start-ups, content creators and public institutions to adopt .

tz, he added, supports national objectives on digital transformation, local content development, data localisation and cybersecurity. The campaign will also promote professionalism, authenticity and national pride in the digital space, while supporting local content creators and ICT innovators.

Dr Bakari said TCRA provides a platform that allows innovators to test their ICT solutions without the high costs previously required. “Owning a Tanzania domain name makes it easier for clients to access an organisation’s services, demonstrates professionalism, enhances branding, and builds trust and confidence among users,” he said.

Under the Electronic and Postal Communications (Numbering and Addressing) Regulations, organisations operating in Tanzania are required to register and use domain names under the .tz country code top-level domain.

These include companies, government and non-governmental organisations, societies, partnerships, community-based organisations, academic institutions, as well as e-health and e-agriculture service providers. The regulations further state that .

tz should be used for all official correspondence unless it is technically impossible. .

By Katare Mbashiru Dodoma. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has called on judges and magistrates across Tanzania to remain steadfast in the dispensation of justice, stressing that a strong, principled judiciary is a key pillar for safeguarding the country’s peace, security, and stability.

“Make sure that you stay firm in the line of justice without fear or favour, guided by professionalism, patriotism and integrity,” said President Hassan. The President spoke on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, while officiating at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Judges and Magistrates Association of Tanzania (JMAT), held in Dodoma.

She emphasised that a strong, independent and principled judiciary is essential for national cohesion, noting that judges and magistrates carry a heavy constitutional responsibility, as their decisions directly affect public trust in state institutions. “The peace we enjoy as a nation is closely linked to how justice is delivered,” she said, adding that fairness, accountability, and efficiency in the courts are key to sustaining stability and harmony in society.

Her remarks come amid growing calls from analysts, religious leaders, and members of the political class urging all law enforcement organs to uphold justice strictly, arguing that lasting peace cannot be achieved without fairness and equal application of the law. Responding to these concerns, President Hassan acknowledged their importance, saying her government recognises the role of justice in governance and development.

She reiterated her administration’s commitment to strengthening the judiciary through reforms, upgraded infrastructure, adoption of technology, and continuous capacity building for judicial officers. President Hassan also cautioned judges and magistrates against corruption and external influence, urging them to be guided by the Constitution, the laws of the land, and professional ethics at all times.

She equally urged judicial officers to carry out their duties with integrity, professionalism, and courage, particularly as the demand for fair and timely justice grows. The AGM of JMAT brought together judicial officers from across the country to discuss challenges facing the judiciary and strategies for enhancing efficiency and public confidence in the justice system.

JMAT is the professional body representing Tanzania’s judiciary by fostering judicial independence, integrity, unity, and collaboration among judges and magistrates to enhance access to justice, often working with the broader Judiciary of Tanzania and regional counterparts such as the East African Magistrates’ and Judges’ Association (EAMJA). JMAT President Elimo Massawe, said out of 1,700 members, a total of 1,200 attended the AGM, noting that the association has been in existence for 41 years since its establishment.

He underscored JMAT’s role in supporting its members and working with other stakeholders to uphold justice, integrity, and the rule of law within the Tanzanian judiciary. At the event, Chief Justice George Masaju requested President Hassan to improve the welfare of judges and magistrates, helping prevent judicial compromise and reducing opportunities for corruption among officers.

During her remarks, President Hassan said the government would continue increasing the salaries and stipends of judges and magistrates in line with the country’s economic growth. Among the key issues to be discussed at JMAT’s meeting, according to Chief Justice Masaju, is the role of judicial independence in the administration of justice.

He stressed the need for judicial autonomy by enacting laws that grant greater independence to judges and magistrates. “In intensifying self-regulation, we are now drafting a bill to remove Regional and District Commissioners from chairing ethics committees in their respective areas of jurisdiction, after recognising that their impartiality is questionable,” he said.

According to the CJ, the bill seeks to strengthen judicial independence, increase courage, accountability, and reduce interference from government officials. However, the judiciary boss noted that independence has already strengthened at all levels.

He added that justice dispensation has improved, case backlogs have been reduced, and by December 2026, all backlogs are expected to have been cleared. .

Arusha. Parents and guardians across the country are being urged to ensure that school-aged children report to school and begin classes as scheduled, as schools are reopening today for a new term.

Ms Regina Qwaray, the deputy minister in the President’s Office (Public Service Management), made this call during a visit to the construction site of the new Laja Secondary School in Karatu District, Arusha Region, on Sunday. “Parents and guardians should understand that by educating children, you are making an investment.

When our young people are educated, they will support us in the future. Education opens the mind, and where there are many educated people, change is inevitable,” she said.

“I call upon parents and guardians with children of school-going age to ensure they report to school. Those who have passed Standard Seven should not be left idle in the streets.

We must ensure that after completing primary education, they proceed to Form One,” she added. Speaking about the school, which is being built through the Tanzania Social Action Fund (Tasaf) under the OPEC project, Ms Qwaray said the government continues to prioritise education projects to ease the burden of students having to walk long distances to school.

“Through this project, students are now studying closer to home. There are hostels, and I commend the community for their commitment and for recognising the value of education,” she said.

She urged residents to take good care of the project, warning that poor maintenance would result in high future costs. “We can already see the benefits of such a project, including protecting girls from early marriages and other harmful practices,” she said.

Karatu District Executive Director, Mr Juma Hokororo, thanked Tasaf for implementing various development projects, particularly in the education sector. which he said had significantly improved learning infrastructure in the district.

He said the council had put in place strategies to ensure that all children of school-going age are enrolled and report to school. “As schools prepare to reopen, the council has already set measures to ensure that all children of school-going age are enrolled and attend school,” he said.

He added that parents should not use school uniforms as an excuse to keep children out of school, noting that the government has made it clear that there should be no barriers to accessing education. Meanwhile, the Acting Tasaf Coordinator for Karatu District, Mr Athanasi Sarwatt, said the school project had cost more than Sh774.9 million, of which Tasaf contributed Sh659.5 million, while over Sh115 million was raised through community contributions.

He said the contributions included sand, gravel, water, stones and labour. .

Dar es Salaam. The National Examinations Council of Tanzania (Necta) has announced it will follow up on 19 pupils who used abusive language in the 2025 national assessment tests for Standard Four and Form Two, directing schools to take disciplinary action.

The move follows a rising trend of candidates using offensive language in examination scripts. Necta said the affected pupils will not only have their results cancelled but will also face further disciplinary measures.

Results of the October 2025 Standard Four national assessment show that eight pupils used abusive language in their examination papers, while 11 Form Two candidates committed a similar offence. Speaking on Friday, January 10, 2026, Necta Executive Secretary, Prof Said Mohamed, said the council will formally write to the heads of the affected schools since the pupils are still within the school system.

“We will write to the relevant authorities, including school heads and school boards or committees at the primary school level, and involve parents to ensure firm action is taken so that this behaviour is eliminated,” he said. Prof Mohamed noted that the trend is growing among younger learners.

“When you look at our statistics, we are now starting to see abusive language even among Standard Four pupils. Last year we had five cases, but this year the number has risen to eight.

Since these pupils are still in the education system, we must take corrective measures,” he added. Education and parenting expert, Ms Asha Mwakalukwa, said the move was necessary as it shows the problem is not being treated as a minor offence but as a sign of moral decline among children.

She said the use of abusive language in examinations reflects broader challenges in upbringing and the environments children are exposed to, including unrestricted use of social media and inappropriate language in society. “Instead of only cancelling results as punishment, schools follow-ups and involving parents will help identify the root causes of this behaviour and correct it early,” she said.

In another development, Necta has cancelled the results of 41 Standard Four pupils and 29 Form Two candidates who were found to have engaged in examination malpractice. In the Standard Four assessment, a total of 1,324,970 pupils, equivalent to 88.91 percent, passed and qualified to proceed to Standard Five after obtaining grades A, B, C, and D, an increase of 2.

51 percent compared with the 2024 performance. For Form Two, 705,091 candidates, equivalent to 86.93 percent, qualified to proceed to Form Three after obtaining grades one to four, marking an increase of 1.

52 percent compared with 2024. In 2025, the Form Two assessment was conducted in two streams for the first time, including a practical skills stream. Results show a 100 percent pass rate in engineering-related practical subjects, including electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, automotive studies, and information and communication technology.

In non-engineering practical subjects, including agriculture and food processing, hospitality and tourism, fashion and tailoring, sports and creative arts, eight out of 14 subjects recorded a 100 percent pass rate. However, performance was poor in the Leather Goods and Footwear sector, where only three out of 20 candidates, equivalent to 15 percent, passed.

The issue of registered candidates failing to sit for examinations persisted in 2025. A total of 77,689 Form Two candidates, equivalent to 8.74 percent, did not sit for the examination despite being registered.

At the Standard Four level, 1,583,686 pupils were registered; however, 93,309 candidates, equivalent to 5.89 percent, did not participate in the assessment.

.